5 Signs You Need to Clean Your Dryer Vent

Mar 19, 2017

As with all home appliances, your dryer needs regular maintenance to make sure that it’s working properly. Each time you dry a load of laundry, you know to clean the lint trap, but that’s not the only maintenance the dryer needs. Your Deerfield, Illinois, home is at risk for fire if the dryer vent isn’t periodically cleaned. We’ve put together some tips on how to know when the dryer vent needs to be cleaned.

A Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell or a hot smell when you run the dryer, it’s time to get the vents cleaned. When there’s a buildup of lint in the vents and ducts, it can easily cause a fire.

A Buildup of Debris

For this one, you’ll need to go outside and locate the outdoor vent opening. If the lid on the vent doesn’t open when the dryer is running or there’s an obvious buildup of debris, that means that the airflow is blocked and the vent needs to be cleaned.

Dryer Runs Too Hot

If your dryer seems to be running hotter than normal, it may be a sign that it is overheating and wasting energy due to a buildup of lint in the dryer hose and vent duct.

Drying Takes Too Long

If you notice that it’s taking longer than normal to dry your clothes, this may also be a sign that it’s time to get the dryer vent cleaned. This will be easiest to notice at the end of a normal drying cycle.

You Haven’t Had an Inspection

If it’s been longer than a year since you had the dryer vent inspected, it might be time for a cleaning. One of the easiest ways to make sure your dryer vents are properly cleaned is to hire a professional.

If your dryer is showing any of these signs, then it might just be time to have your dryer vents cleaned. Don’t hesitate to call Carefree Comfort, Inc. at 847-388-0115 to schedule an appointment.